Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development, MSEd
The M.S.Ed. in Interdisciplinary Studies in Human Development (ISHD) program examines the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects of human development within the context of culture and social policy. The ISHD master’s program offers students the opportunity to create an individualized program of study that leads to an enriched understanding of the diverse perspectives of human development across the lifespan in one of the following career interests: traditional academic research, youth programming and services, urban and ethnic studies, adult development and learning, international programming (e.g., work with NGOs), foundation administration, and program development. The program is designed for pre-professional training and to prepare students to advance within their careers by gaining a better understanding of human development issues. The M.S.Ed. in ISHD also gives students a solid foundation for applying to doctoral programs in human development and related fields.
For more information: https://www.gse.upenn.edu/aphd/ishd/msed
Curriculum
A total of 10 course units are required for the ISHD MSEd.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Introductory (Required) | ||
| EDUC 5560 | Human Development | 1 |
| Current Research, Theory, Application (Required) | ||
| EDUC 8560 | ISHD Proseminar | 1 |
| Developmental Foundations 1 | ||
| Select at least 3 of the following: | 3 | |
| Education and International Development | ||
| Developmental Theories: Applications with Adolescents | ||
| Adolescent Development | ||
| Personality & Social Development | ||
| Cognitive Development | ||
| Peer Relationships in Childhood and Adolescence | ||
| Cognitive Processes (EDUC 5568 pre-req) | ||
| Poverty and Child Development | ||
| Social, Cultural & Policy Foundations | ||
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Psychology of the African-American | ||
| Race/Ethnicity in Human Development | ||
| Advanced Psychology of Women | ||
| Cultural Perspectives on Human Development | ||
| Risk, Resilience, and Prevention Science | ||
| Quantitative Methodology | ||
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Introductory Statistics for Educational Research | ||
| Regression and Analysis of Variance | ||
Another statistics course can be substituted with permission | ||
| Qualitative Methodology | ||
| Select one of the following: | 1 | |
| Qualitative Studies of Developmental Interventions | ||
| Qualitative Methods: Principles and Techniques | ||
| Mixed Methods Research: Counseling & Development | ||
| Electives | ||
| Select 2 graduate level elective courses | 2 | |
| Total Course Units | 10 | |
Applied Development and Counseling Skills Concentration:
ISHD MSEd students may opt for a concentration in Applied Development and Counseling Skills by taking 7 ISHD courses in addition to 3 courses that would fulfill requirements for the concentration.
Required Milestones
Comprehensive Examination (or Portfolio or Thesis)
Master’s degree candidates must demonstrate thorough knowledge of the field of specialization by passing a comprehensive examination in their area of study. The examination/portfolio/thesis serves an educational and evaluative purpose through which students are expected to review and integrate what they have learned in their coursework and fieldwork. Comprehensive formats vary.
- 1
Counseling Area of Concentration students select at least 2 of these courses.
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.